A Journey of Forgiveness

Throughout my life, I stood there, watching,

Dinner demands, avocados each night, insisting,

Whiskey on rocks or with coconut water, Buchanan's delight,

Your voice, a thunderous roar, paralyzing fright.

We spoke, yet fear held our tongues,

Obedience the norm, in your presence, we were strung,

Family lunches and beach trips, days of fun,

But anger and fear always managed to overrun.

Lonely rides home, music an annoying score,

Sundays meant family, but torture it bore,

My brother flinched, your scolding, heartsore,

Yet ribs at the buffet, a love he did adore.

At twenty-three, pregnant, I found strength,

Confronting your ways, setting boundaries at length,

Against emotional and verbal abuse, I took defense,

Liberation found in speaking up, intense.

No tolerance for abuse, that truth took hold,

Protecting my daughter, a promise bold,

Our bond improved, your demeanor less cold,

Maybe age, COVID's impact, or stories old.

Hero and enemy, you wore both a guise,

But understanding dawned, to my surprise,

You didn't know better, that I now realize,

Forgiveness bloomed, love within me lies.

You miss her, I know, twenty years by your side,

Yet it was best for her to leave, that I confide,

Find happiness within, let peace be your guide,

Unconditional love remains, despite the tide.

I forgive you, Dad, a journey complete,

In this embrace of love, our hearts find a seat,

Let peace and happiness your soul meet,

A journey of forgiveness, in love's retreat.